The Lisa Wexler Show

Lisa Wexler examines a Connecticut law that allows the state to seek reimbursement from incarcerated individuals for the cost of their imprisonment, with no statute of limitations. She explores the implications of a system in which the state can pursue repayment years later, often without individuals fully understanding the law, and how this can affect inheritances and financial support from loved ones.

Former pastor and attorney Elayne Cassara joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the Netflix series Death of a Pastor’s Wife. Drawing on her own experience in ministry, Cassara reflects on her journey from seminary to church leadership and the urgent need for greater accountability within religious institutions. She explores how unchecked authority can enable harmful behavior, including the misuse of power, coercive control, and the marginalization of women, and why stronger oversight is essential to prevent abuse.

Former pastor and attorney Elayne Cassara joins Lisa Wexler to discuss the Netflix series Death of a Pastor’s Wife. Drawing on her own experience in ministry, Cassara reflects on her journey from seminary to church leadership and the urgent need for greater accountability within religious institutions. She explores how unchecked authority can enable harmful behavior, including the misuse of power, coercive control, and the marginalization of women, and why stronger oversight is essential to prevent abuse.

Oren Cass, founder and chief economist of American Compass, Financial Times contributing editor, and New York Times opinion writer, joins Lisa Wexler to discuss his recent New York Times essay, “Big Tech Fooled America Once. The Second Time’s Not Going So Well.” He explores how the tech industry—particularly AI—has shifted from a nonprofit, public-good mission to a powerful, profit-driven force with world-shaping ambitions, raising new concerns about influence, accountability, and doomsday narratives.

State Representative Tina Courpas joins Lisa Wexler to reflect on her freshman term in office - what she’s most proud of, what she believes still needs improvement, and why she’s running for reelection. She also discusses concerns about the erosion of local control, overspending, and the implications of a legislative supermajority in state government.

Immigration attorney Dana Bucin joins Lisa Wexler to break down the various pathways to citizenship, including dual citizenship opportunities across different countries, and what you need to know before pursuing them.

Lisa Wexler covers top daily news and interviews Dana Bucin, Tina Courpas, and Oren Cass. Plus KINDNESS OF STRANGERS.

Lisa Wexler covers top daily news and interviews CT Comptroller Sean Scanlon and Quinnipiac University Professor Shizhen (Jasper) Jia on his work to use AI to help support those grieving.

Quinnipiac University Professor Jasper Jia joins Lisa Wexler to explore how AI chatbots could support people living with dementia and those experiencing grief. They discuss the potential for AI to provide companionship, guidance, and support during the moments between interactions with family members, caregivers, therapists, and other human support systems. Jia also shares his vision for developing a better AI program designed to respond to the unique emotional and practical needs of people facing dementia or loss, while complementing, rather than replacing, meaningful human connection.